5 June 2013 - The UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) has given aid agencies in South Sudan $5.4 million for medical aid and two helicopters to assist people affected by hostilities in Jonglei State, according to a statement released today by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

The funding will boost partners' capacity to treat patients injured in clashes by providing much needed medical equipment and supplies as well as support staff. The two helicopters are vital to access and treat or evacuate injured civilians.

The situation in Jonglei state has deteriorated since hostilities between the South Sudanese army and armed groups flared up in March 2013. Tens of thousands of civilians have been displaced by the violence, leaving most population centres abandoned and health centres looted or destroyed.

"I am deeply concerned about the safety of civilians in Jonglei, many of whom are in urgent need of medical assistance," said Toby Lanzer, the UN's Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan.

"This funding will help us to access remote areas and enable us to reach people struck by violence," Mr. Lanzer said. "Aid workers must be able to reach people in need, and I count on all parties to ensure that we can do so."